HVAC Maintenance in Houston – What Rain Can Do to Your AC

When the rainy season hits, flowers and allergies are in full bloom. More rainfall can spell trouble for your outdoor air conditioning system. You might be worried what damage the rains can do to your AC, but luckily most owners will have no real reason to be concerned.

Rain and a Heating/Cooling System

Every air conditioner is made up of electrical parts. When these parts get exposed to the elements every day, they continue to function. This is because AC systems have been designed to hold up to all kinds of weather even heavy rains. Most of the delicate, electric components are sealed under a metal housing which keeps them safe. During most normal rainstorms, homeowners will not have to worry about the AC getting damaged.

What About Floods?

Outdoor AC systems can hold up to rainwater but floods are different. AC systems cannot be protected by their housings from any amount of flood waters even if only exposed to them for a few hours. Floods that go above 15 inches are a major concern. Storms that are accompanied by high winds can also potentially be a concern because the debris kicked up by the winds can harm the AC unit.

What to Do

If you can cover your AC unit before a heavy rain, this will shield it from the wind and shallow flood waters. Make sure the cover is made of a breathable material that will fit your AC’s housing. Plastic or tarp should be avoided because condensation can occur when they are placed over the AC. This allows mildew to grow. Covering your AC is not required, but it is recommended.

For more answers to your AC questions, or to schedule maintenance on your unit, give the AC Man in Houston a call or contact AC Man today. See what we can do for you!